A hot air balloon descends to the ground. The function h(t) = 210 – 15t can be used to describe the altitude of the balloon as it approaches the ground. Which statement best describes the graph of the function that models the descent of the balloon?
Answer
A
The graph is discrete because there cannot be fractional values for time.
B
The graph is discrete because there cannot be negative values for altitude.
C
The graph is continuous because there can be fractional values for time.
D
The graph is continuous because there can be negative values for altitude.
Explanation
Time passes continuously, so the balloon’s altitude can be described at fractional times such as 1.5 seconds. Therefore, the graph is continuous. The balloon’s altitude being nonnegative does not make the graph discrete.
AI-written and checked against the verified answer.